[sillysaurusx]

No thanks.

I get that people are emotional about this, but it’s important to treat science with a critical eye.

The claim is that more energy came out than was put in. This is false.

It’s not just me saying it. https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRVP5Pmg/

There is no “context” to understand. Yes, it’s an impressive feat. Yes, other laser designs might fix the huge ignition costs. But that hasn’t happened yet, and until it does, it’s completely fair to point that out.

Will it win me any friends? Probably not. It’s like showing up to a party and saying the reason for the party is mistaken. Very few people care.

But scientists should, and I am one. Doubly so for incorrect reporting to laymen. We have a responsibility to convey what was actually achieved, not what we wish was achieved.